1. The team is less than three weeks away from opening day against Gonzaga. What is your view of the team thus far and what is the biggest difference between this team and the one that UTPA fielded in its final game of last season?
OP - "I think that we are more together as a team. We are definitely more of a cohesive team compared to the last few years because everybody likes each other, hangs out on and off the field and there are no individuals. Also, we have a lot of new guys that come from winning programs, and their attitude of not excepting losing is really rubbing off on everybody. We are all definitely heading in the same direction."

2. What do you believe is the team's biggest strength and weakness and why?
OP - "I would say that our biggest strength is the outfield because we have a lot of depth out there. I think that our weakness is mentally clearing that hurdle of losing and getting back onto a winning track."

3. With over 15 newcomers on the team this season, how has the progress of the team both on and off the field been from the first day of practice until this point in preseason practice?
OP - "I think that in years past we have been really spread out and everybody had their own agenda. This season, there is a lot more togetherness among the team. Everybody watches out for one another."

4. How important is it for the team to get out to a quick start this season?
OP - "I think that it's really important because we don't have that many home games this season, and we really need to take advantage of them. Also, we are playing a lot of quality opponents early in the season and getting some of those wins could really carry a lot of momentum for us."

5. If you were asked to grade your performance last season, what would you give yourself and what do you believe you need to improve on for the upcoming season?
OP - "I would give myself a C last season. I would have good stretches then bad stretches, and I really wasn't consistent. I also had a hamstring injury and that really set me back last season. This year, I really want to be consistent the entire season, and not have a lot of highs then lows."

6. What was the most frustrating part of last season for you as a player?
OP - "I think that the biggest frustration for me last season was being injured and not being able to help the team when we were struggling."

7. What's the biggest obstacle that you've had to overcome in order to reach this point in your life?
OP - "I would say overcoming all of the people who are negative and have doubted me."

8. Baseball players are notorious for being superstitious. What superstitions do you follow?
OP - "I always put a photo of me and my father in my right sock. I also say a prayer and touch my hat three times before playing defense every inning."

9. What were your goals coming into the 2006 season?
OP - "My biggest goal for the team would be for us to surprise every one and come out and have a great season. Individually, I just want to have a consistent season and play my part in helping the team win some games."

10. Who has had the greatest impact on your life and why?
OP - "I would say my family. My dad has always been my coach in baseball and life. My mom is my rock, and she gives me my strength. My sister is my wind, and she has always been there for me."